Reconnecting families in the New Forest –  Eight families headed off to the New Forest Outdoor Centre in Lyndhurst, last weekend for a forest activity weekend. The weekend was part of our All-Together program, which aims to bring little troopers together to spend time with others who have similar life experiences.

The families stayed in Shepherd Huts for the weekend and threw themselves into some fun challenges. On the first evening they took a night walk along the Purbeck Ridge to see Corfe Castle. Saturday began with the first team challenge; to build the raft and test it out on Leominstead Lake! After a change of clothes and lunch, everyone enjoyed some archery and bushcraft activities.

On Saturday evening the parents got some well-earned rest time while the children enjoyed some games and a campfire. Before everyone said goodbye on Sunday there was time for one more family challenge using high and low ropes to suspend from the trees!

Louise, founder of the charity, said: “It was so great to spend time with the families over the weekend. Getting quality time together as a family when you are part of the military is often tricky. It was a real joy to see everyone laughing and enjoying some special time together. Everyone got stuck in with all the activities and we hope it has helped to create some special family memories.”

10 year old Penelope who attended the weekend with her family said, “I like meeting other military people because they know how you feel when your parents go away.”

Our Family Reconnection Weekend

The Family Reconnection weekends are part of our All-Together programme and have been made possible thanks to support from Team Forces . The weekends are aimed at families before, during or after a period of separation.

Military families with up to four siblings aged 9 and over can apply to attend one of the weekends. They are perfect for those looking for an exciting few days of outdoor adventure and connection. Everyone is encouraged to put down their phones, meet new people and make memories. Each weekend runs from Friday to Sunday at no cost to the families. 

We have two more weekends planned this year. The dates are:  

• Friday 25th July to Sunday 27th July, Brenscombe, Wareham, Dorset.  
• Friday 26th September to Sunday 28th September, Portland, Dorset.   

All Together Programme

The family reconnection weekends are part of our ‘All Together’ programme which brings together young people from across the military community. As well as the weekends, we organise activity days and online workshops. The next round of workshops will be announced over the summer.

Information on all of our ALL-Together activities will be sent out to our mailing list and posted on social media.